Lightly updated and edited for tone and accuracy.

Different strategies work with different children, but these tips generally get the job done.

How will I know my toddler is ready to be potty trained?

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

If your little one isnt developmentallyready for potty training, even the best toilet tactics will fall short.

All kids are different.

Don’t punish your child, as that can backfire and cause him toresist being potty trainedeven more.

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

But don’t donate that stash of diapers just yet there’s still work to do.

You might say, “Wearing underwear is fun!”

or “Pretty soon you’re free to flush like a big boy!”

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

And never refer to your child’s diaper contents as “smelly” or “gross.”

If he’s frightened by the flushing sound, just dump and flush later.

Some children balk at the “baby” potty and demand to use the “grown-up” one instead.

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

In that case,buy a potty seatthat attaches to the toilet.

It’s hard to ignore urine when there’s no diaper to hold it in.

Keep the potty close by so your child can act quickly when nature calls.

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

Keep him motivated

Remind him that using the potty means he’s growing up.

Teach him to check for dryness

This offers him an added sense of control.

If your expectations are unrealistic, you could diminish his self-confidence.

Back to Top

Don’t scold, punish or shame.

If you overreact, you might discourage your toddler’s future attempts.

But this approach is unfair and unhealthy not to mention ineffective.

Article image

Avoid a bathroom battle

Squabbling over going to the potty is sure to prolong the struggle.

for a few weeks.

Potty training doesn’t usually come easily or without bumps.

Article image

While the prospect of ditching the diapers is exciting, getting there can try your parenting patience.

But dont lose hope.

Dress your toddler in clothes that are easy to pull up and down.

Article image

Talk about the benefits of using the potty and start using consistent language to describe going to the bathroom.

All kids are different.

Article image

Trending On What to Expect

Trending On What to Expect

Is Your Toddler Being Disrespectful? Here’s Why and What to Do

Is Your Toddler Being Disrespectful? Here’s Why and What to Do

Is Your Toddler Being Disrespectful? Here’s Why and What to Do

Here’s Why Your Toddler Is Taking Off His Clothes and What to Do About It

Here’s Why Your Toddler Is Taking Off His Clothes and What to Do About It

Using Positive Reinforcement on Your Toddler

Using Positive Reinforcement on Your Toddler

What to Do if Your Toddler Keeps Running Away

What to Do if Your Toddler Keeps Running Away

11 Tips to Make Flying With a Toddler Go More Smoothly

11 Tips to Make Flying With a Toddler Go More Smoothly

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

potty training tips, toddler boy in big boy pants with potty in foreground

Article image

Is Your Toddler Being Disrespectful? Here’s Why and What to Do

Is Your Toddler Being Disrespectful? Here’s Why and What to Do

Here’s Why Your Toddler Is Taking Off His Clothes and What to Do About It

Here’s Why Your Toddler Is Taking Off His Clothes and What to Do About It

Using Positive Reinforcement on Your Toddler

Using Positive Reinforcement on Your Toddler

What to Do if Your Toddler Keeps Running Away

What to Do if Your Toddler Keeps Running Away

11 Tips to Make Flying With a Toddler Go More Smoothly

11 Tips to Make Flying With a Toddler Go More Smoothly